Bullying, including:

Facts About Dating and Sexual Abuse

Females are 2 to 3 more times more likely to experience sexual abuse than males

Young women are at a greater risk of sexual assault, physical assault and murder than older women.

Watch for the following clues that a person may be experiencing dating violence

signs of physical injury

excessive absence from work or quitting work, poor work performance

emotional outbursts, mood or personality changes

isolation, keep to themselves

drug or alcohol use

indecision

Women of all ages can take measures to prevent becoming abuse victims. Recognizing trouble signs is an important first step. It is equally vital for women to value themselves and take action to avoid partners who try and maintain power or control over their time, body and actions.

Safety Planning, Tips and Actions

Dating Safely

Consider double dating the first few times you go out with a new person

Ensure that you have the resources to get home on your own

Be aware of your decreased ability to react if under the influence of drugs or alcohol

If you leave a party with someone you don't know, make sure you tell a reliable person your plans and who you are leaving with.

Ask a friend to call and make sure you made it home safely

Assert yourself when necessary

Be firm and straightforward in your relationships

Trust your instincts

If a situation makes you feel uncomfortable, try to be calm and think of a way to remove yourself from the situation

Help Yourself

Examine your relationship and encourage people who date to examine their relationships. Anyone in a relationship should consider whether they are:

afraid of their partner

made to feel stupid, useless or worthless

being cut off from family and friends

feeling forced into sexual activity

being threatened with physical abuse

being manipulated emotionally, such as "if you love me you will do as I want"